Consider a cat that suddenly hisses when touched on the lower back. A purely medical approach might label this "aggression." However, a behavior-informed veterinarian sees a potential red flag for or hyperesthesia syndrome . Similarly, a dog that begins house-soiling isn't being "spiteful"; it is often the first clinical sign of diabetes , kidney disease , or cognitive dysfunction .
A veterinarian asks: "Does your dog run for the ball anymore?" The owner says: "No, he just brings it back and lies down." Consider a cat that suddenly hisses when touched
The veterinarian hears: Exercise intolerance? Joint pain? Or lack of motivation? Consider a cat that suddenly hisses when touched